Clothing Selection Is Critical

To help you prepare for the hunt, this unit covers:

Assembling the right clothing and equipment

Perfecting your archery skills

Learning about your quarry and the hunting area

The Well-Dressed Bowhunter

Besides your bow and arrows, clothing is your most important consideration. Your clothing not only must protect you from the elements and rough terrain, but it also should meet these special requirements of bowhunting. Bowhunters who are comfortable and remain motionless will see more game than those who are restless because they are wearing uncomfortable clothing.

Low Noise: Clothing must make as little noise as possible because bowhunting is done in closer proximity to game than firearm hunting. Wool, brushed cotton, or new soft-nap synthetic clothing minimizes fabric rustling.

Proper Fit: Clothing that’s too tight will restrict movement when drawing a bow. Clothing that fits too loosely may catch a bowstring as you release.

Boots: Consider Comfort and Safety

Boots that fit poorly or that have improper soles or treads can cause problems. Soft-crepe boot soles with little or no tread are exceptionally quiet if you decide to still hunt. However, while these soles will allow rocks to bite into their soft surface and give you good traction on rough terrain, they can be slippery in dry leaves or on moss, thereby causing a fall. Make sure your boots—and all of your equipment—are well-suited for the weather and terrain you’ll encounter.

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The Florida Bowhunter Ed Course

Bowhunter Ed is committed to Bowhunter education safety. We work with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to produce Bowhunter safety education that’s accurate, interesting, and easy to understand.